Moving toward a sustainable gallery
Building a sustainable future. What we’ve done, and what’s next.
Why we moved
Root Gallery's previous location in Rotterdam was far from efficient. The space had a five-metre-high ceiling, single glazing, no insulation, and an ageing central heating system. For some exhibitions, we had to build temporary walls, not ideal if you're trying to reduce waste.
We didn’t just want a new space. We wanted a smarter one. One we could shape for the future. Our new location in the Krimpenerwaard allows us to work more sustainably, and make choices that align with our values.
Read more about why we left the city, and what we found just beyond it: Why we moved.
Photography by Jacqueline Fuijkschot
What we’ve done so far
Sustainability is a big word, especially for a small organisation. But step by step, we've been making choices that help us reduce our impact while staying true to our mission.
We started by tackling the basics: better insulation for roof and walls, removing old radiators, and adding solar panels. Draughty garage doors were replaced with thick, insulating glass, designed to keep both cold and heat outside.
Inside, we reused wood from elsewhere in the building to construct new walls. Our paints are selected with care for health and environment. Even the details - from hand soap to cleaning products - are chosen for their low environmental impact. We serve tap water, never bottled, and all snacks are vegetarian.
We also try to keep things close to home. A local framer in our street helps us reduce transport emissions. Most days, natural light is enough to illuminate the space, meaning we use fewer lights. We’ve even changed banks to one that shares our sustainability goals.
Transport remains a challenge. For international fairs, we try to combine efforts, delivering works to clients en route or setting up an additional exhibition in the area. Shared transport makes a difference.
Packaging is tricky too. There’s no perfect alternative yet, but we opt for high-quality materials we can reuse, like durable bubble wrap.
We let artists choose their materials freely. Not every choice is eco-perfect, but a good varnish can make an artwork last for generations. To us, that’s also a form of sustainability.
What's next: circular exhibitions and more
Circular exhibition design is high on our agenda. We’re developing reusable plinths, modular furniture, and low-impact flyers in limited editions, making each show as flexible and low-waste as possible. For us, sustainability is not an add-on, but part of how we curate and present.
Beyond that, we’re working on a garden with native plants, good for bees, butterflies and birds, and a natural extension of the way we think about sustainability indoors.
We’re also planning smart storage solutions, EV charging stations for visitors, and greener mobility for our team. Each of these steps may seem small, but together they contribute to a future-proof gallery. And they’re only possible because people choose to support us.
Every work that leaves our gallery contributes to this vision. When you collect from Root, you help us grow in the right direction.
Why this matters to us
At Root Gallery, we believe in long-term relationships, with collectors, with artists, and with the works themselves. Our focus is on lasting value: artworks that continue to resonate long after they’ve left the gallery.
If you're looking for a more conscious way to collect, or if you're working on a sustainable interior for your home or office, we’re happy to share what we’ve learned.
We only collaborate with artists who live and work within travel distance of the gallery, so artworks can be delivered by land rather than air.
Starting November 2025, we’ll also open our doors for private gatherings. A chance to experience art in a more intimate, sustainable setting.
→ Rent the space
→ Request private viewing
→ Get online art advice
Root Gallery does not receive structural subsidies. Every decision we make - from sustainable renovations to circular design - is made with care and limited resources. That’s why every sale truly matters.
Are you working on your own sustainability goals? We’d love to exchange ideas.
